RICS Level 2 Survey Stoke upon Tern

Our RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Report provides a thorough inspection of the property's condition, focusing on the main elements that affect value and safety. We examine the walls, roof, foundations, dampness, and structural integrity, producing a detailed report that highlights any defects found during our inspection. In Stoke upon Tern, where detached properties dominate the housing stock at nearly 45% of homes, our surveyors pay particular attention to roof conditions and any signs of movement that could indicate subsidence issues. We have found that properties in this area often have roofs that have been re-tiled several times over their lifespan, and we carefully assess whether the current covering is in adequate condition.

The report includes a clear traffic light rating system showing condition ratings of Good, Satisfactory, Requires Attention, or Urgent Repair. This means you can quickly identify which issues need immediate attention and which can be addressed over time. For properties near the River Tern, we specifically check for signs of flood damage, water ingress, and damp that may not be visible during a casual viewing. Our surveyors also examine the condition of windows, doors, and joinery, as well as the condition of any extensions or alterations that may have been made to the original property. We have encountered numerous cases where previous owner alterations have not been properly consented or constructed, which can cause issues during the conveyancing process.

We inspect all accessible parts of the property including the roof space where safe to do so, the sub-floor areas, and the exterior of the building. Our report covers the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, doors, windows, fireplaces, chimneys, boundaries, garages, and outbuildings. For the older properties in Stoke upon Tern, we pay special attention to the condition of original features and any signs of outdated electrical systems or plumbing that may require updating. Many properties in the village date from the Victorian and Edwardian periods, and these often have older fuse boxes, dated plumbing, and potentially asbestos-containing materials that our surveyors will identify. Our detailed approach means you won't face unexpected repair bills after moving in.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp and timber condition
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical condition
• Boundaries and outbuildings

Stoke upon Tern's position on the banks of the River Tern creates specific considerations for property buyers. River flooding represents a genuine risk factor that our surveyors assess during every inspection. We look for signs of previous water damage, dampness, and the condition of any flood mitigation measures that may have been installed. Properties in low-lying areas near the river require particularly careful evaluation, and our reports provide specific advice on any flood-related concerns identified during the inspection. We have surveyed several properties along the riverside that showed evidence of previous flooding, and our reports have helped buyers factor in potential flood risks and mitigation costs.

The housing stock in Stoke upon Tern consists predominantly of detached homes at nearly 45% of properties, with semi-detached houses accounting for around 38% and terraced properties making up approximately 14%. This mix means most buyers in the area are purchasing larger properties that may have been built using traditional construction methods. Many properties in the village date from various periods, and our surveyors are experienced in assessing the condition of older buildings and identifying issues commonly associated with properties of different ages. The village has seen limited new-build development in recent years, meaning the majority of housing stock is pre-1950s construction with all the associated characteristics.

The local economy includes major employers like HMYOI Stoke Heath prison, which employs significant staff numbers and contributes to the local housing market. The nearby Clive Barracks site has undergone changes in recent years, with the MOD vacating the site and it being earmarked for potential development. These local factors influence property values and the types of properties available in the area, making professional surveys particularly valuable for buyers unfamiliar with the local market. The village also has a primary school, local shop, and pub, making it attractive to families and commuters working in nearby Market Drayton or Shrewsbury.

The Church of St. Peter in the village centre is a Grade II listed building, indicating the historic character of the area. Properties in the vicinity of the church and along the main village street are likely to be older period homes that may have been constructed using traditional methods including solid brick walls, original timber frames, and pre-modern drainage systems. Our surveyors understand how to assess these older properties and identify issues such as rising damp, inadequate sub-floor ventilation, and outdated services that are commonly found in properties of this age. We also check for any historic alterations that may require building regulation approval.

• River Tern flood risk assessment
• Older property construction methods
• Traditional drainage systems
• Sub-floor conditions
• Roof and loft space inspection
• Boundary and outbuilding condition